German Drone Maker Hit by Cyberattack
Ukrainian military drones are grounded as precautionary measures follow a breach at Quantum Systems.
By Simon Bennett ·
A cyberattack on a key supplier of drones to Ukraine has led German military forces to pull the unmanned aircraft out of service. The incident involves Quantum Systems, a Bavarian defense start-up that manufactures reconnaissance and surveillance drones for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The company confirmed the breach in a statement released in early November 2026, noting that the issue was detected in late October.
Quantum Systems is based in Gilching, near Munich. The company stated that an internal investigation identified an active attack by hostile actors. The firm’s IT and security teams contained the threat while working with authorities. The manufacturer said the systems pose no risk to end users or operators, and the incident remains under investigation.
The German military acted as a precaution. According to the Financial Times, the German armed forces removed Quantum Systems drones from service following the security incident. Germany’s Defence Ministry declined to comment on media reports when contacted in Berlin.
Quantum Systems produces drones for military and civilian use. Its current focus is on reconnaissance and surveillance, though it is developing surface and underwater models. A recent product, the Reliant unmanned reconnaissance system, can monitor large areas for over ten hours. It takes off vertically and includes integrated artificial intelligence. The company also develops Mosaic software for managing unmanned systems.
The drone maker has expanded its role in the war in Ukraine. In October 2026, it was reported that Quantum Systems planned to provide Ukraine with tens of thousands of Spys interceptor drones. These are designed to counter Russia’s Geran-4 and Geran-5 jet-powered UAVs. In late 2025, Quantum Systems and Ukrainian manufacturer Frontline Robotics announced they would launch production of attack drones in Germany for Ukraine.
The company reported the incident to relevant authorities and continues its investigation. The security teams have completed initial containment efforts. Quantum Systems maintains that the operation of its systems remains safe for users and operators.
